Kona, Lihue & Eleele — The Art of Island Time

Kona, Waikoloa

Pick-up your rental car and prepare to explore the beautiful oasis of Hawaii Island. An SUV (or similar) will be reserved in your name. Please speak with your Destination Expert if you are interested in an upgrade option.. Make your way from Kona International Airport to Waikoloa. Drive time is approximately 30 minutes.. The spirit of aloha is embodied throughout the Fairmont Orchid and its incredible selection of amenities. Fairmont Orchid's award-winning Spa Without Walls blends the essence of relaxation with a tropical spirit. Choose from eight private outdoor waterfall hales (huts), six oceanfront cabanas or three indoor treatment rooms to begin your spa journey. Enjoy a birds-eye view of paradise as you take a spin in the resort's private lagoon by stand-up paddleboard. Play ‘spot the honu’ (Hawaiian sea turtles) with your kids, or soak in the authentic Hawaiian culture as you learn to hula or make lei. The luxurious Fairmont Orchid also boasts a 10,000 square foot oceanfront pool, world-class golf, a fitness center, and a 10-court tennis pavilion.

Accommodation: Fairmont Orchid (Ocean View Room), Kona

Waikoloa

Set out with a private driver-guide on a full day discovery of the Big Island, sampling the island’s finest coffees and sweet treats before heading to a picturesque black sand beach, stunning volcanoes, and a gourmet dinner. Drive into the heart of the island's coffee country and breathe in the fresh mountain air at a local coffee farm as you're treated to some premium coffee and a deli-style lunch enhanced by a view over the expansive Kona coastline. Continue to Punalu’u where you'll sample fresh Hawaiian sweetbreads and malasadas from the southernmost bakery in the U.S. Head to nearby Punalu’u Black Sand Beach for a view of the beautiful expanse where many Polynesian explorers first came ashore. This incredible stretch of beach is home to many nesting Hawaiian sea turtles, and is also a favorite spot for locals to fish and BBQ on the weekends. Make your way to the crown jewel of the Big Island, the UNESCO-listed Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, featuring two of the world’s most active volcanoes - Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Explore the Visitor’s Center, see and feel the heat of steam vents and view Kilauea and Kilauea Iki craters before taking a short hike through Thurston Lava Tube. In the early evening, sit down as you're treated to a delightful 3-course dinner in a historic lodge. If the lava is flowing and the weather is right, venture back into the park after dinner to view the magnificent glow of Halema’uma’u crater. Conclude with a scenic drive back to your hotel.. From seasonally-inspired menus to dining designed to satisfy all tastes, the culinary experiences at Fairmont Orchid are sure to delight. The vistas alone are worth a leisurely evening at Brown’s Beach House, the resort's AAA Four Diamond signature restaurant. Explore the long-running creative culinary exchange between Hawaii and Japan firsthand at Binchotan Bar & Grill, featuring traditional northern Japanese fare. Share island-inspired, hand-crafted sushi and cocktails in the dedicated, lobby-level lounge space. Enjoy savory fare at Brown's Deli, fresh baked goods at Orchid Court, or a casual dinner served with sunset views at Hale Kai Restaurant.

Accommodation: Fairmont Orchid (Ocean View Room), Waikoloa

Waikoloa, Kona

Spend time at leisure strolling the inviting golden sands of Waikoloa Beach. One of the most popular and cherished beaches on the Big Island, this enchanting shore offers miles of pristine sand and deep blue seas. Nestled on the South Kohala coast, Waikoloa is home to many notable cultural and geologic features of ancient Hawaiian culture, including aquaculture fishponds and petroglyphs. Bask in the beauty of this historic locale and take to the waters for incredible aquatic activity.. Make your way from Waikoloa to Kona, a drive of approximately 30 minutes.. Experience an evening rich in Hawaiian beauty as night falls on the islands. Embark on an incredible sunset sail with time to snorkel Big Island's enchanting waters. Board a 50’ catamaran and glide along along the Kona coast to your snorkeling destination. Arrive to Manta Ray Village and receive in-depth analysis of one of the ocean's most mysterious creatures as provided by knowledgeable onboard guides. Take to the water on a custom-built lightboard, illuminating the magical wonderland below. Light draws plankton, which in turn draws manta rays, ready to greet you as they nibble for food. Snorkel alongside these elusive filter feeders, watching in wonder as they seamlessly glide with grace. Post snorkeling, return to the catamaran for a few cozy treats - hot cocoa, tea and chocolate chip cookies provide the perfect end to your excursion. Sail back to the pier, drinking in the lights of illuminated Kona town.. Make your way from Kona to Waikoloa, a drive of approximately 30 minutes.

Accommodation: Fairmont Orchid (Ocean View Room), Waikoloa

Waikoloa

Take to the skies and discover Big Island's natural beauty and volcanic might during an unforgettable helicopter tour. Join a small group of fellow adventurers for an up-close look at the famous Kilauea volcano, which has been continuously erupting since 1983. Experience unparalleled panoramas of black sand beaches, Madame Pele’s amazing volcanic badlands, the lush rainforests of the Hamakua Coast and the meandering valleys of the Kohala Mountains. Today's adventure also includes a landing at Laupahoehoe Nui on the Kohala Coast, boasting a majestic 1200-ft. waterfall and once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities. Savor a birds-eye-view of spectacular Hawaii: unspoiled, untouched, and wondrous.. Perched above Pauoa Bay, the celebrated Brown's Beach House offers tempting culinary delights paired with the island’s most spectacular sunset panoramas. Here, innovative cuisine draws from simple pure flavors of locally grown produce and a diverse variety of fresh seafood. Indulge in decadent entrees of tempura ahi, ka'u coffee venison, five spice duck breast, and even 14 oz. prime rib-eye. Please note: Your meal is not included and will be paid for on location. Reservations are confirmed at the time of booking and are subject to availability.

Accommodation: Fairmont Orchid (Ocean View Room), Waikoloa

Waikoloa, Lihue, Poipu, Kona

Make your way from Waikoloa to the Kona International Airport. Drive time is approximately 30 minutes.. After driving through quintessential Hawaiian beauty, make your way to the rental car drop-off center and return your vehicle.. Board a flight from Kona, Big Island with service to Lihue, Kauai. Approximate flight time is 55 minutes. Please note this flight is not included in your itinerary price and must be purchased separately.. Pick-up your rental car and prepare to explore the beautiful oasis of Kauai. An SUV (or similar) will be reserved in your name. Please speak with your Destination Expert if you are interested in an upgrade option.. Make your way from Lihue to Poipu, a 20-30 minute drive.. From outdoor dining options, to elements of wellness and nature, Koa Kea offers an unforgettable getaway. Wade among the flora and fauna at the exclusive resort pool and whirlpool just steps away from the beach. Indulge in tropical cocktails, exciting cuisine, and authentic Hawaiian favorites from the circular thatched roof Pool Bar. Visit The Spa at Koa Kea for a variety of treatments designed to ease stress and restore a state of pure bliss. Stop by the resort's on-site adventure hut to prepare for unparalleled adventure. Learn to surf, snorkel Poipu, paddle out on a stand up paddle board, or experience the traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe.

Accommodation: Ko`a Kea Hotel & Resort (Ocean View Room), Waikoloa

Waimea Canyon State Park, Poipu

Make your way from Poipu to Waimea Canyon State Park.. Explore the captivating "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" during today's privately guided hike. Immerse yourself in the splendor of the polychromatic Waimea Canyon, one of Hawaii's most treasured geological wonders. Ascend the trailhead with your private guide, pausing at several lookouts to drink in the splendor of the canyon and the Koke'e highlands. Admire panoramic views of crested buttes, rugged crags and deep valley gorges. Keep alert for possible sightings of the whitetail tropic bird as it soars over the canyon. On arrival to the lookout, unwind amid the tranquility, fuel up with a light lunch, and take a dip in a natural pool perched by the canyon's edge.. Make your way from Waimea Canyon State Park to Poipu.

Accommodation: Ko`a Kea Hotel & Resort (Ocean View Room), Waimea Canyon State Park

Poipu, Eleele

Make your way from Poipu to the Port Allen Marina in Eleele, a drive of approximately 20 minutes.. Embark on an unforgettable sailing adventure along the enchanting Napali Coast. Join a group of fellow adventurers and board a stunning 50-foot sailing catamaran, preparing f or an incredible expedition above and below surface waters. Fuel up with a continental breakfast as your vessel departs Port Allen. Your knowledgeable Captain will narrate your journey with legends, stories, and historic tales of this mind-blowing stretch of northern coastline. Embrace the charm of Kauai's stunning Napali Coast, home to cascading waterfalls, lush emerald valleys, magical sea caves, and remarkable marine life. Somewhere along the shore, your Captain will use his or her discretion and pick out the optimal snorkeling location for the day. Dive into inviting waters, or take the plunge in style, courtesy of the catamaran's waterslide. Immerse yourself in a magical underwater world, keeping alert for potential sightings of endemic fish species found nowhere else in the world. Post-snorkeling, indulge in a delicious lunch before sailing back to Port Allen.. Make your way from Eleele to Poipu.

Accommodation: Ko`a Kea Hotel & Resort (Ocean View Room), Poipu

Poipu

Experience the shimmering turquoise water and powder-soft white sand of Poipu Beach with time at leisure. Divided into two bays, the beach is not just a favorite for locals and vacationers, but also a beloved lounging spot for Hawaiian monk seals and sea turtles. Poipu Beach is ideal for family fun thanks to a highly protected area called “Baby Beach”, where even the littlest ones can safely dip their toes in the water. Spend a day at leisure exploring this picturesque oasis, take the plunge into inviting waters, or simply soak up the sun in the paradise of Poipu. While you may occasionally spot a green sea turtle on the beach during the day, the best time to spot them here begins at dusk. Perhaps opt to take a shuttle to Brennecke's Beach across from Poipu Beach Park, where a group of turtles generally come ashore at dusk before retreating back into the waves again at sunrise.

Accommodation: Ko`a Kea Hotel & Resort (Ocean View Room), Poipu

Poipu, Lihue

Make your way from Poipu to Lihue, a 20-30 minute drive.. After driving through quintessential Hawaiian beauty, make your way to the rental car drop-off center and return your vehicle.